Luca Guadagnino, the renowned filmmaker, has once again made headlines at the Locarno Film Festival, but this time not for his own projects, but for his support of a protégé's work. In a recent interview, Guadagnino discussed his decision to produce Giovanni Tortorici's sophomore feature, 'Ketticè', a coming-of-age drama set in Palermo, Sicily, during the era of Silvio Berlusconi. This choice is not merely a personal preference, but a statement about the state of Italian cinema.
Personally, I find Guadagnino's choice of supporting Tortorici's work particularly fascinating. In an era where many filmmakers struggle to find their voice, Guadagnino has chosen to nurture a fresh talent. This act of mentorship is not just about producing a film, but about preserving the essence of Italian cinema, which has a rich history and a unique language. In my opinion, Guadagnino's decision to produce 'Ketticè' is a bold statement against the sterility he perceives in the current Italian film landscape.
The film itself is a coming-of-age story, set in Palermo in 2012, during the reign of Berlusconi. It follows Giulio, a listless 16-year-old, and his encounter with Ketty, a more self-assured peer. Their friendship becomes a shared refuge from the judgmental gaze of the adult world. The title 'Ketticè' refers to Ketty's nickname in Sicilian dialect, adding a layer of local flavor to the film.
What makes this film particularly interesting is the way it explores the failure of institutions like school, family, and the state in nurturing young people. Tortorici, the director, believes that the guilty ones are the adults, who live in a cultural context of ultra-capitalism and media. This perspective is a refreshing take on the coming-of-age genre, which often focuses on the struggles of young people with their peers and the world around them.
From my perspective, the film's exploration of the family structure as a repressive force is particularly compelling. It raises a deeper question about the role of family in society and how it shapes the next generation. This is a theme that is often overlooked in favor of more glamorous or exciting topics, but it is one that is crucial to understanding the struggles of young people today.
One thing that immediately stands out is the film's cinematography by Camilla Cattabriga and editing by Marco Costa. The visual style of the film is a reflection of the director's vision, and it is a testament to the power of cinema as a medium. The film's international sales are being handled by PiperPlay, which is a testament to the film's potential to reach a global audience.
What many people don't realize is that 'Ketticè' is not just a coming-of-age story, but a reflection of the current state of Italian cinema. The film's production is a statement about the importance of nurturing fresh talent and preserving the unique language and perspective of Italian cinema. In my opinion, this is a film that deserves to be seen and celebrated, not just for its storytelling, but for its significance in the broader context of cinema.
If you take a step back and think about it, the film's production by Guadagnino is a call to action for the film industry. It is a reminder that cinema is not just about making money, but about preserving the art form and nurturing the next generation of filmmakers. In my opinion, this is a film that will have a lasting impact on the Italian film landscape, and it is one that deserves to be celebrated and supported.
